A new AARP study identifies an
online victim profile based on 15 key behaviors and life experiences that
increase a person’s vulnerability to online fraud.

AARP project director Nicole Ware
the study found that more than one million Internet users in Ohio may be at
high risk of being victimized...

"Clicking
on pop-up ads for things like weight-loss or money making opportunities;
being impulsive, making purchasing decisions while you’re in an altered or
emotional state of mind; feelings of isolation or loneliness, and just being
cautious about how you use your personal information over the Internet."

Yes, suprisingly, Ware’s project found
that a person’s stress level - from such things as the loss of a job, concerns
about debt, or feeling alone - can put a person at greater risk of being
scammed. Yes, s

The Federal Trade Commission has
reported that online scams doubled over a three-year period. And Ware says
nationally, an estimated $20 billion was stolen from 13 million victims in
2012.

She says more of us are vulnerable to online ripoffs than we think...

"While they may not think it may
not happen to them, about two-thirds of all Ohio adults that access the
Internet have received at least one online fraud offer in 2013."

Ware says Ohioans can protect
themselves and others through a free AARP service.

Also, there are free browser applications
available that will block those unwanted and often shady ads and pop-ups. Go to a reputable technology
site such as cnet.com and search for free, popular ad blockers.